Isro, SCTIMST sign MoU to advance space medicine
T'puram: With an eye on advancing
space medicine
in India, Indian Space Research Organisation (
Isro
) and Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences & Technology (
SCTIMST
) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU).
The partnership, titled 'Framework Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation in Space Medicine', marks a significant milestone in the advancement of space medicine and its applications in the country, an official statement on Friday said.
The MoU aims to encourage cooperation in the field of space medicine, which will benefit the national human space programme as well as spur innovations and developments in the fields of human physiological studies, behavioural health studies, biomedical support systems, radiation biology and medicine, countermeasures for improving human health and performance in space environment, telemedicine and communication protocols, and crew medical kit for space missions, the statement said. The program is expected to create opportunities for studies and experiments, especially in the field of space medicine.
Isro chairman V Narayanan said the national human spaceflight endeavour,
Gaganyaan
, aims to enhance the nation's capacity in the field of human research under space environment. "Maintaining human health and performance in the extreme environment of outer space is very important for the successful long-duration human space missions. A national space-based platform, such as the Bharatiya Antariksh Station, will enable the utilization of the niche space environment to undertake cutting-edge human research and technology development based on our national priorities. This collaboration can inspire young people to pursue careers in STEM fields, driving innovation in the country, he said.
Dr Sunil Kumar, additional secretary and head of the AI division at SCTIMST's department of science and technology (DST), said that research and developments in space medicine would enhance the understanding of human physiology, human adaptation, and the development of new medical devices and diagnostic procedures. These developments for space have the potential to improve healthcare for people on Earth, he added.
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